RBK suffered more European disappointment in midweek, losing to Austria Vienna 1-2 at home. In truth, they were second best on the night and deserved to lose. They seemed to lose heart a few weeks ago when they went out of the CL qualifiers against Cypriot side APOEL. Domestically, they have a massive 12 point lead and it’s just a matter of when, not if they’ll win the league. Rosenborg have a superb 100% home record, having won 10 out of 10 at the Lerkendal Stadion. The coach often rotates players a bit following European games, and it looks like key winger Pal Andre Helland will miss out today. But Rosenborg have done full rotations in recent times and had absolutely no issues claiming comfortable wins.

Tromso preview

The northern outfit claimed a massive three points last week when they beat Viking 2-1. It gives them a little bit more of a cushion above the relegation zone and Tromso probably deserve this considering how they've played since the winter break. I have noticed a more proactive Tromso, willing to gamble more to win matches. I expect them to go back into their shell today though. Usually when they face a really big team away from home, the main objective is to stay as tight and compact as possible. Tromso actually have a fairly good record against Rosenborg in recent years. They haven’t lost any of the last seven H2H meetings by more than one goal, and last season a couple of 1-1 draws were obtained facing the champions. Left back Kent Arne Antonsen is suspended, whilst first choice keeper Gudmund Kongshavn is still injured.

Conclusion & betting analysis

RBK have a superb home record and are clearly the best team in the Tippeligaen. Even with rotated squads they've been hammering sides, an example being the stunning 6-0 vs Haugesund. I just have a feeling sooner or later they will lose their intensity. This is a team 12 points clear from their nearest rival so it might be natural for them to ease up a little bit. Rosenborg have been playing a lot of matches recently and yet again have encountered European disappointment. Tromso will likely park the bus and make themselves hard to break down. RBK should be able to manage this but the visitors might also have a different gear to move into should they fall behind. The RBK handicap is -1.75, which is far too big. There’s no way I could back this line, but on the other hand you’d have to be incredibly brave to take Tromso too. I’m going to predict a closer home win but I don’t really want to get involved here.